ERIC Number: EJ804115
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2006
Pages: 15
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1940-4476
EISSN: N/A
Research on Same-Gender Grouping in Eighth Grade Science Classrooms
Friend, Jennifer
RMLE Online: Research in Middle Level Education, v30 n4 p1-15 2006
This study examined two hypotheses related to same-gender grouping of eighth grade science classes in a public middle school setting. The hypotheses were (a) male and female students enrolled in same-gender science classes demonstrate more positive science academic achievement than their peers enrolled in mixed-gender classes, and (b) same-gender grouping of students has a positive effect on classroom climate. Participants were randomly assigned, and instruction did not vary for the same-gender and mixed-gender classes. The first experimental group was a class of all-male students (n = 20) taught by a male science teacher. The comparison group consisted of male students (n = 42) in coeducational classes taught by the same male teacher. The second experimental group was a class of all-female students (n = 23) taught by a female science teacher. This comparison group consisted of female students (n = 61) in coeducational classes taught by the same female teacher. Results of this study led to the conclusions that same-gender grouping did not produce significant differences in student science academic achievement and same-gender classes did not create a more positive classroom climate. For this middle school, policy recommendations include limiting same-gender grouping until further research indicates that this structure is effective in countering gender-stereotypes and improving achievement and attitudes toward science. (Contains 2 tables.)
Descriptors: Science Achievement, Science Teachers, Grade 8, Classroom Environment, Gender Differences, Science Instruction, Middle Schools, Grouping (Instructional Purposes), Single Sex Classes, Coeducation, Comparative Analysis, Gender Issues, Teacher Student Relationship
National Middle School Association. 4151 Executive Parkway Suite 300, Westerville, OH 43081. Tel: 800-528-6672; Tel: 800-528-6672; Fax: 614-895-4750; e-mail: info@nmsa.org; Web site: http://www.nmsa.org/Publications/RMLEOnline/Articles/tabid/101/Default.aspx
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Grade 8; Middle Schools
Audience: Policymakers
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A